Flight Lieutenant James McMillan

James flew the Harrier GR9 before joining the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team.

Age - 31

Education - Educated at Kerikeri High School in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, James achieved the equivalent of A Level qualifications in Physics, Chemistry, Economics and Mathematics.

Career - Passionate about becoming a fast jet pilot for as long as he can remember, James was accepted for pilot training in the Royal New Zealand Air Force whilst still in his last year at school. After completion of his basic flying course, James was selected for fast jet training and, upon gaining his “Wings”, became the youngest qualified fast jet pilot in the RNZAF, flying the Aermacchi MB339. After the New Zealand Government’s decision to disband all fast jet aircraft, James accepted an offer of service from the RAF and transferred to the UK in 2002. Completing his training on the Hawk, he was selected as a “creamie” Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) in 2003 and spent several years teaching advanced fast jet training to students at RAF Valley. Upon completion of his instructional tour and Tactical Weapons course in 2006, he was posted to the Harrier GR9 where he served with 1(F) Squadron based at RAF Cottesmore. During his time on the front-line, James was proud to serve in Afghanistan, flying in direct support of UK and coalition troops on the ground. He also participated in numerous exercises, both in the UK and overseas, which included two detachments flying from the aircraft carriers Illustrious and Ark Royal. In 2010, after serving his last year on the front-line as the Squadron QFI, James was posted to the Harrier Operational Conversion Unit, 4(R) Sqn, based at RAF Wittering.

Background - James was born and raised initially in the UK but ended up living in New Zealand from the age of 10 when a family holiday turned into something a little longer! Growing up in the sub-tropical environs of the Bay of Islands has instilled him with a love for all things water-related and he will rarely turn down a chance to go kitesurfing/wake-boarding/sailing/kayaking etc. Often suffering from a distinct lack of proximity to the sea, James resorts to the hills in times of need and will be found either walking up them or coming down them on his mountain bike or snowboard, often accompanied by his partner Jennie, who also serves in the RAF as an Air Traffic Controller.